11 Best Motels in Sacramento, California

Are you planning a trip to Sacramento and need a comfy, affordable spot to crash? You’re in luck! We’ve explored every corner of the city and found some of the best motels in Sacramento California. Whether you’re road-tripping through the state, attending an event, or just soaking up the city’s growing food, art, and outdoor scenes, finding the right place to stay shouldn’t be a hassle. Of course, as fellow travelers, we understand your need of wanting more than just a cheap bed. We deserve clean rooms, convenient locations, Wi-Fi that actually works, and maybe even a pool to unwind in. Yep, you can get all of that with the following motels, as they check all the boxes. No matter your travel style, there’s a spot on this list ready to make your stay easy, comfortable, and budget-friendly.

Travelodge by Wyndham Sacramento/Rancho Cordova

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Kicking off this list is the Travelodge by Wyndham Sacramento/Rancho Cordova. This hotel is only a short drive off Highway 50 and not too far from downtown Sacramento. We were able to visit the California State Capitol without any hassle, and for a bit of fun, Sacramento Raceway Park was only a few miles away.

The rooms here are basic, but ours had everything we needed. It came with a desk, TV, and free Wi-Fi, which made it easy for us to get a little work done and relax in the evenings. We also appreciated having some extras like the mini-fridge, microwave, and coffeemaker.

The hotel offered a complimentary continental breakfast, which was simple but delicious. Aside from that, parking was free too, and there was plenty of it, which isn’t always the case with budget hotels. During our stay, we also had the chance to use the outdoor swimming pool.

Motel 6 Sacramento, CA – Old Sacramento North

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This is one of the many Motel 6 accommodations in the city. One of the biggest selling points of Motel 6 Sacramento, CA – Old Sacramento North is its location. Right off the Golden State Highway and just an 8-minute walk to Discovery Park, we couldn’t ask for anything better. Downtown attractions like the California State Railroad Museum and the Capitol Museum were also only a short drive away.

Our Queen Room was exactly how we imagined it would be. It was simple but clean, with colorful accents, wood floors, and all the essentials. Though it wasn’t the biggest, it sure was comfortable. We also loved how clean the bathroom was, which was always a plus.

The motel also offered free parking and morning coffee, both of which we appreciated. There’s a year-round outdoor pool, so we could always take a swim whenever we wanted. If you’re looking for an affordable, no-frills stay close to downtown Sacramento, this Motel 6 is a solid pick.

Super 8 by Wyndham Sacramento/Florin Rd

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The Super 8 by Wyndham Sacramento/Florin Rd certainly deserves to be called one of the best motels in Sacramento California. We loved our stay here! The hotel put us just a 5-minute walk to Florin Towne Centre for shopping and dining and only a 12-minute drive to downtown. It was the perfect balance, as it was close to everything but still quiet enough for us to relax.

Our room had all the basics covered and then some. We loved having an en suite bathroom, a flat-screen TV, and small comforts like a minifridge, microwave, and coffeemaker. Not to mention, the free Wi-Fi was lighting fast. The hotel even offered DVD players for rent, which was a fun throwback.

The extra perks really made the stay feel worth it. Every morning started with a free continental breakfast, and we always made time to jump in the heated outdoor pool. Other notable amenities include a business center and laundromat.

Motel 6 Sacramento, CA – South Sacramento and Elk Grove

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Up next is the Motel 6 Sacramento, CA – South Sacramento and Elk Grove. This motel is right off the Golden State Highway, making it really easy to get around. We even made a quick trip to William Land Park, which was just under 8 miles away and had a great time visiting the Sacramento Zoo and Fairytale Town.

This motel sure knows how to make the most of their rooms. We chose the Queen Room, and it checked all the right boxes. It was modern and felt more lively than a typical bare-bones motel. We also loved the wood floors, which were cleaner than carpet. Oh, kids 17 and under can stay without any extra fee when traveling with an adult.

The amenities here were modest but useful. The outdoor pool was open when we were there, and we loved relaxing there. We also appreciated the free morning coffee, which was a small but thoughtful offering. Plus, there’s ample truck parking, which can be a big help for travelers with larger vehicles.

Extended Stay America Suites – Sacramento – Arden Way

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Best for Long Stays. If you’re planning to have a long stay, we highly recommend the Extended Stay America Suites – Sacramento – Arden Way. The location was perfect for us, as we were only a mile from Cal Expo, where we attended the California State Fair, and a quick drive to Raging Waters Sacramento. Even though it’s close to major spots, the hotel was surprisingly quiet.

For our stay, we chose the Queen Studio, and it had everything we wanted. Think free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, a work desk, and a full kitchen. It felt clean, simple, and comfortable. Having a kitchen was particularly a big bonus, letting us prep quick meals instead of always eating out.

We also loved the little extras like free parking and breakfast. Moreover, the guest laundry facilities were a nice touch, and it’s pet-friendly too if you’re traveling with animals. Awesome, right?

Read also: Best Boutique Hotels in Sacramento.

Motel 6 Sacramento CA Natomas

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Best Pet-Friendly. You won’t be disappointed by the Motel 6 Sacramento CA Natomas either. Being just under 9 miles from the airport, our arrival and departure were stress-free. We also appreciated how close we were to Discovery Park and the California State Capitol Building, both just a short drive away. It made it easy to mix in some hiking and cycling during our downtime without having to trek too far.

When it came to the room itself, we were surprised. It was much better than we expected. Our room was spotlessly clean with fresh bedding. We liked the built-in furniture setup, which included nightstands with USB connections. Plus, there’s something charming about Motel 6’s tradition of leaving the light on for guests. It made us feel genuinely welcomed after a long day of travel.

As for the amenities, they covered all the essentials we needed for a comfortable stay. Free Wi-Fi was a big plus, having free private parking on-site made coming and going hassle-free, and the 24-hour front desk staff were friendly and responsive whenever we had questions. It was also nice to know pets are welcome here.

Speaking of which, check out these top 11 pet-friendly hotels in Sacramento, California, too!

American Inn Sacramento Downtown

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The American Inn Sacramento Downtown is one of the newest motels in town. After spending a night here, we came to the conclusion that it was one of the quietest and most peaceful experiences we’ve had at a hotel. When we arrived, we were immediately impressed by the clean and cozy atmosphere. The young woman at the front desk was incredibly friendly and welcoming, setting the tone for our whole visit.

We booked the Deluxe Queen Room for a night, and it was exactly what we wanted. The room was spotless, and it came equipped with thoughtful amenities like air conditioning, heating, a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom with free toiletries. The bed was comfortable, and the overall setup of the room made it easy to unwind and feel at home.

One of the best parts about the hotel is its location. It’s right in the center of Sacramento, making it super convenient to get around. We were within easy reach of popular spots like the Sacramento Convention Center, the Sacramento Valley Amtrak Station, and the California Capitol Building.

Crossroads Inn – Downtown Sacramento

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The Crossroads Inn – Downtown Sacramento was a great choice for our needs. The location was incredibly convenient, as it was only a quick 5-minute drive to downtown, where we explored shops and restaurants. The hotel was also about 9 minutes from Sacramento International Airport, which made our early flight home so much less stressful.

Like many other Sacramento motels, the Crossroads Inn offered us a simple but well-equipped room. The free Wi-Fi worked well throughout our stay, and having a fridge and coffeemaker in the room made it easy to keep our snacks fresh and start our mornings right. What really stood out, though, was how comfortable the bed and pillows were. We genuinely always looked forward to coming back and sinking into that cozy bed. Oh, some suites even have whirlpool tubs.

Another highlight was the complimentary continental breakfast, which offered just enough to get us fueled up before heading out each morning. Plus, free parking was available, which we found super convenient. No need to stress about expensive downtown parking fees!

Sky Riders Motel

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The Sky Riders Motel sits right across from Sacramento Executive Airport, making it incredibly convenient for travelers like us who enjoy a bit of plane-watching. It’s also close to some key spots. We were just a short drive away from the Sacramento Zoo and had an easy time reaching downtown and Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park.

We booked the Standard Room, and it was perfect for our low-key stay. Accessed through an exterior corridor, it featured all the basics we needed: strong air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, cable TV, a microwave, and a minifridge. There are also studios with full kitchens for those planning longer stays. The decor wasn’t anything fancy, but everything was clean and functional, which suited us just fine.

One of the highlights was the small outdoor pool, which we loved to take a dip in. We also enjoyed the observation deck overlooking the airport; it was a unique touch we hadn’t seen at other motels. Plus, free parking was a big bonus, especially since we were driving around the city a lot.

Want to swim indoors? Here are the 11 best hotels with indoor pools in Sacramento.

Motel 6 Sacramento, CA – Downtown

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Best Location. This is arguably the best Motel 6 in Sacramento CA. Yep, the Motel 6 Sacramento Downtown is a solid choice for a budget stay. It’s conveniently located right off the Elvas Freeway and just a quick drive to the Sacramento Convention Center Complex. Check-in at the 24/7 front desk was easy, and the staff was welcoming, which made us feel at ease after a long day.

The rooms at this hotel are simple but modern. Our Queen Room came with wood floors, granite countertops, and a flat-screen TV. We also appreciated the clean and uncluttered space. Furthermore, kids 17 and under stay free with an adult, which is a great perk for families.

Outside the room, we appreciated the free morning coffee and convenient free parking. Talk about freebies! The outdoor pool was also clean and quickly became our favorite spot for unwinding. Lastly, there’s coin laundry for guests having a long stay.

“A downtown motel? Who could say no to that? Staying here allowed us to be near everything without spending the extra money.”

WOW Travel

Oasis Inn Sacramento Elk Grove

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Best Value for Money. Our experience at the Oasis Inn Sacramento Elk Grove was nothing but fantastic. First, let’s talk about its location. Staying here, we were just a 15-minute drive to downtown Sacramento and about 22 minutes to the airport. It was the perfect base for exploring the city without the hassle of being right in the middle of everything.

We booked the Queen Room, and it was spotless when we arrived. The free Wi-Fi worked well, and the TV had plenty of premium channels like HBO. We also appreciated having a microwave and mini fridge, which made it easy to store and heat up snacks during our stay.

Each morning, we enjoyed the complimentary continental breakfast. And during our spare time, we would cool off in the seasonal outdoor pool. Make sure to take a dip! Finally, the free parking and the guest laundry were also convenient.

Planning to visit the city with your lover? Check out these 11 most romantic hotels in Sacramento, CA instead!

Our Verdict!

Though affordable, all of the motels in Sacramento California listed above have a lot to offer. However, which one should you pick? We’ve categorized some of them based on the following, important criteria. Take a look!

• Best Value for Money: Oasis Inn Sacramento Elk Grove
• Best Location: Motel 6 Sacramento, CA – Downtown
• Best Pet-Friendly: Motel 6 Sacramento CA Natomas
• Best for Long Stays: Extended Stay America Suites – Sacramento – Arden Way

Where to Stay in Sacramento?

If this is your first time visiting Sacramento and want to be in the heart of the action, stay in downtown Sacramento. It’s home to numerous dining options, museums like the California State Railroad Museum and the Sacramento History Museum, and attractions such as the Golden 1 Center.

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In addition to that, you can also consider Old Sacramento. This is the place to be for history enthusiasts. This 28-acre historic district will transport you back to the 1800s with its preserved buildings from the Gold Rush era. It’s also home to the California State Railroad Museum and Wells Fargo History Museum. Expect beautiful riverfront views, cobblestone streets, and horse-drawn carriages.

You should also consider Midtown. As Sacramento’s cultural hub, it’s known for its exciting arts scene, rich dining options, and lively nightlife. The neighborhood hosts the Second Saturday Art Walk monthly, featuring local artists and musicians. It’s also pedestrian and bike-friendly, making it easy to explore its boutiques, cafes, and galleries.

Top Affordable Restaurants in Sacramento

• Chando’s Tacos – Known for its authentic and flavorful street-style tacos, Chando’s offers a variety of fillings at reasonable prices. We highly recommend the popular al pastor and carne asada. It’s a great spot for a quick, delicious, and budget-friendly meal.
• Huong Lan Sandwiches – If you’re looking for a cheap and filling bite, Huong Lan is the place to go. The Vietnamese Banh Mi sandwiches are to die for. They offer a variety of fillings, and the sandwiches are known for their fresh ingredients and affordable prices, often under 10 USD.

Free Things To Do in Sacramento

• California State Capitol Museum – Step into California’s history and political heart. You can take a free guided tour of this beautiful building, see the legislative chambers, and learn about the state’s past and present.
• Old Sacramento Waterfront – Wander through this charming historic district that takes you back to the Gold Rush era. While the shops and restaurants aren’t free, simply exploring the wooden sidewalks, historic buildings, and the waterfront is a treat.

Is it better to stay in a hotel or motel?

It depends on your needs and priorities. Motels typically offer budget-friendly accommodation with basic amenities and easy parking, often located along highways, while hotels usually provide more extensive services and amenities, catering to longer stays and often situated in more central locations.

Is Sacramento, California worth visiting?

Yes, it is. Sacramento offers a blend of historical charm, farm-to-fork dining, and a vibrant arts scene, making it a worthwhile destination for many.

What is the best month to visit Sacramento?

The best months to visit Sacramento are typically from May to July and September to November, offering pleasant weather for outdoor activities and numerous events.